Healthcare technology specialist Cerner has created an EHR-agnostic tool that improves the accuracy of fall risk detection by 60 percent, compared to traditional fall assessment methods.
When used with a fall risk algorithm, developed over the past 10 years by Cerner, a Cerner study has shown the tool can help clinicians identify fall-risk patients with a 90 percent accuracy rate in 10 minutes. By comparison, studies show traditional questionnaire-type assessments identify only 30 percent of patients who later experience a fall.
At a fraction of the cost of standard kinesiology assessments, which are most readily available at academic medical centers, and about the size of a pack of gum, the tool is inconspicuous, reusable and designed to be used in clinics of all sizes, including smaller critical access and community hospitals. Cerner will expand initial availability of the tool this year.
Patients belt the tool around their waist and walk independently or with assistance around a clinic, doctor's office or hospital hallway for 10 minutes.
Time series analysis and mathematical models calculate the patient's movement, speed and activity. The tool is compatible with existing nursing workflows and processes, and caregivers receive a personalized assessment of the patient when data from the tool is uploaded into a computer.
"We are steadfastly committed to creating the innovations that will help providers deliver the best care, every time, for every person at the lowest attainable cost," said Doug McNair, president, Cerner Math. "Developing an improved solution to prevent fall-related injuries is a win-win for patients and providers."
Cerner, Doug McNair, US
